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1,857 people sought child therapy help in Connecticut in the last year

Discover how starting therapy with a child can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

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Cristina Perera

Hear from Cristina Perera, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT)

View Cristina Perera's profile

What is your go-to approach for child therapy?

I believe in order to receive the best possible therapeutic services, patients should request a therapist that specializes in child therapy. This is not my specialty but I encourage people to research and find the best match. Therapy for children can be challenging; I have met with some adults who had negative experiences which impacted their view on therapy. Ensuring the child feels safe and heard is critical.

What tools do you teach in child therapy?

Finding the best therapeutic approach for children is imperative. Many tools are helpful but finding the right one is key.

How do you know when a client is making meaningful progress in child therapy?

Children will let you know clearly if they are comfortable and doing better. Listening to their feedback gives you all the information you need.

What can clients do in their personal time to supplement child therapy?

Parents should communicate with their children, respecting what their thoughts are in therapy, what they like or what isn't working. And encourage them to let the therapist know.

What should someone do to prepare for starting child therapy?

Giving the child an opportunity to speak with the therapist and letting them know they are not being pressured to communicate. Also early on letting them know if they feel it is too much they have the option for a shorter session.

Starting Child therapy

What is child therapy?

Child therapy, also known as counseling for kids, helps young individuals better understand and manage the challenges that affect their mental health. Common challenges amongst kids include behavioral issues, trauma, bullying, depression, and anxiety. All ages of children can attend and benefit from child therapy at Thriveworks New Haven.

How does child therapy work?

Child therapy works by using multiple techniques tailored to fit the child’s needs based on their age group, their challenges, and the severity of their challenges. It might involve play therapy for younger kids or cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, and others for varying ages. In any case, Thriveworks child therapists in New Haven, CT have the expertise and experience to help kids at their level.

Play therapy vs. child therapy

Child therapy is a type of therapy meant for clients within a specific age group, while play therapy is an approach to therapy that helps children with self-expression and stress relief, among others. Play therapy is a technique that is often used in child therapy to help children express what’s running through their minds when they do not have the words to express their thoughts and emotions. It can get children to express what’s wrong, what might be causing unwanted behaviors, or what they might need in a way that is accessible to them so that therapists can then work to treat the issue.

How to tell if my child needs counseling

It’s not always obvious when a child should see a therapist for their behavior, though in the midst of challenges like divorce, loss, bullying, and other mental health conditions, it’s often a good idea to seek it out. Common behaviors that can indicate a need for child therapy include separation anxiety, bedwetting (at inappropriate ages), and agitation/excessive irritability — especially if it reaches a point of physical violence.

What type of therapy is best for children?

Cognitive behavioral therapy at Thriveworks in New Haven, CT is one of the best types of therapy for children. However, it can be administered in child therapy sessions in a variety of ways that are more accessible to young minds, such as play therapy.

Is child therapy conducted in person or online?

Child therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does child therapy last?

The length of child therapy depends on your child’s needs as well as the goals that you and their therapist might have for them. Generally, child therapy sessions will last for several months.

How much does child therapy cost?

At Thriveworks, we take most major forms of insurance, which means that many of our clients only pay a $0-$50 co-pay per session. However, there are also self-pay options that sit around $200 per session, depending on the service and location, for those who are out-of-network.

Need more help deciding?

Child Therapy in New Haven, CT—Child Therapists, Counselors

Parents and caregivers don’t always know why their children are behaving a certain way. While you don’t want to make a big deal out of something that you don’t need to worry about, you also don’t want to wait and let something fester to the point that it leaves long-lasting, negative effects on your child’s mental wellbeing. It is better to get a second opinion and help from a licensed child therapist when you’re unsure than to leave it alone.

If your child is experiencing emotional distress, is acting differently than normal without explanation, is witnessing a divorce, or any other big life event, consider setting them up with a licensed psychologist. The child therapists at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT have extensive experience and education in a multitude of areas surrounding children’s wants, needs, and goals. Reach out today.

What Type of Concerns Can You Help My Child With?

 We understand that every child has unique experiences and concerns. We want to help them, and you, work through these stressors. Here is just a small list of issues that we can provide guidance and support for:

  • Grief
  • Anxiety, depression, or other mental illnesses
  • Lying
  • Aggression
  • ADHD
  • Learning disabilities
  • Bullying
  • School concerns
  • Behavior problems
  • Autism concerns
  • Divorce
  • Change in eating habits
  • Cries often
  • Avoids social events

Don’t see something on the list that explains what your child is going through? No worries. These are just a few of the ways we can help your child or teen. Our goal is to provide them with the tools they need to tackle these issues and face future challenges head-on and confidently.

How Does Counseling Work for Children and Teens?

Child therapy is similar to regular therapy for adults. During the beginning sessions, your teen or child will discuss their feelings, emotions, concerns, and goals. There are so many different methods and techniques for child therapy. When your kid’s therapist sees that one method isn’t working, they move on to the next. Some of the methods they may try are:

  • Play therapy
  • Narrative therapy
  • Anger management tips
  • Art therapy
  • Traditional talk therapy
  • Coping mechanisms

This list could go on. A licensed child therapist at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT will try whatever they need to break through their barriers. Sometimes the best course of treatment is working with the child, parents, or entire family. This helps the whole family unit understand what is going on and how to better communicate with each other. We offer flexible options and can arrange whatever you and your child feel is best.

Ready to Get Started? Schedule Child Therapy at Thriveworks Counseling in New Haven, CT

If you feel like your child could greatly benefit from our help, schedule an appointment with us. You can do so by visiting our online booking portal or by calling (203) 586-4264. We have online and in-person sessions available as well as a wide range of scheduling times. We understand how hectic life can be, so we are available at convenient times for you.

You do not have to go through this alone. Let’s face these challenges together so we can help you thrive.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our New Haven therapists and counselors accept 23 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Connecticut | BCBS

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Connecticut Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

  • Connecticare

  • First Health Network

  • Humana Exchange

  • Humana HMO/POS

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Self-pay costs at New Haven
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

5.0 Thriveworks New Haven reviews are collected through Thriveworks.com.
★★★★★
I started seeing Cristina after I suffered a tremendous loss. She has been a light in my healing journey and I feel so lucky to have connected with her. I cannot recommend her enough and know that anyone who has the fortune of receiving her care is in great hands!!
Read more I started seeing Cristina after I suffered a tremendous loss. She has been a light in my healing journey and I feel so lucky to have connected with her. I cannot recommend her enough and know that anyone who has the fortune of receiving her care is in great hands!!
New Haven Apr 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Cristina Perera is helping me in many ways to get out of my fears and insecurities in my life! I really will live appreciating her as a great therapist!!!
Read more Cristina Perera is helping me in many ways to get out of my fears and insecurities in my life! I really will live appreciating her as a great therapist!!!
New Haven Mar 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Christina is one amazing counsler. She has helped tremendously with my marriage and business relationships.
Read more Christina is one amazing counsler. She has helped tremendously with my marriage and business relationships.
New Haven Mar 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Overall, my experience with Thriveworks has been fantastic. My wife and both sought counseling after having some tough times, and Thriveworks quickly connected us with therapists that have had a positive impact on our lives. The continuing support has been invaluable. Getting insurance and payment info processed is also smooth and efficient. I would definitely recommend the service to anyone looking for help.
Read more Overall, my experience with Thriveworks has been fantastic. My wife and both sought counseling after having some tough times, and Thriveworks quickly connected us with therapists that have had a positive impact on our lives. The continuing support has been invaluable. Getting insurance and payment info processed is also smooth and efficient. I would definitely recommend the service to anyone looking for help.
New Haven Feb 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
My husband and I have been attending marriage counseling for a few months now and Christina has been great. She is so down to earth and really tries to understand us as a couple and individuals. Her style is unique and very hard to find.
Read more My husband and I have been attending marriage counseling for a few months now and Christina has been great. She is so down to earth and really tries to understand us as a couple and individuals. Her style is unique and very hard to find.
New Haven Feb 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I’ve been in and out of therapy most of my life. I’ve worked with many different providers in people and doctors, and I have to say that I have found my match. Finally, after all these years, wonderful can’t say enough good things will continue to use the service for many years to come, or at least until I figure out all my own stuff.
Read more I’ve been in and out of therapy most of my life. I’ve worked with many different providers in people and doctors, and I have to say that I have found my match. Finally, after all these years, wonderful can’t say enough good things will continue to use the service for many years to come, or at least until I figure out all my own stuff.
New Haven Feb 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Christina has been a blessing. She has a way of listening that helps you come to an understanding of the current situation on your own and doesn't push anything on you.
Read more Christina has been a blessing. She has a way of listening that helps you come to an understanding of the current situation on your own and doesn't push anything on you.
New Haven Feb 2022
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Carolnette Graham is a friend and a confidant and also one of the therapist at Thrive Counseling New Haven. She is a great listener, thoughtful, empathic, kind hearted, compassionate, sweet and warm. She gives some of the best advice. A2qfter a talk with her you will see immediate improvement in your situation because of how she takes her time to let you talk and then help you to figure out how you feel about the situation and what leads to you feeling that way. She is also friendly and full of energy. She is indeed a nice and helpful individual.
Read more Carolnette Graham is a friend and a confidant and also one of the therapist at Thrive Counseling New Haven. She is a great listener, thoughtful, empathic, kind hearted, compassionate, sweet and warm. She gives some of the best advice. A2qfter a talk with her you will see immediate improvement in your situation because of how she takes her time to let you talk and then help you to figure out how you feel about the situation and what leads to you feeling that way. She is also friendly and full of energy. She is indeed a nice and helpful individual.
New Haven Dec 2021
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry New Haven is located off of Sherman Ave, just east of Monitor Square and west of the Hospital of St Raphael. We're inside the Sherman Medical Building, along with Renal Research Institute New Haven Home Dialysis and Quest Diagnostics. The closest bus stop is George St and Sherman Ave. If you have trouble finding our office or have any questions about how to get here, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

Phone number

(203) 633-8772

Languages spoken by CT providers

  • Russian
  • English
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm

Shown in ET

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